Great Lakes Wire

MPHI has spotlighted Briaunna Hughes, a Public Health Fellow for Corporate Communication/Anti-Oppression Leadership Team (AOLT) Partnerships Support. Hughes joined MPHI through AOLT’s fellowship program, which aims to develop a diverse professional workforce at the Institute. Fellows collaborate with AOLT to promote anti-oppression and equity across the institute. Their responsibilities include administrative tasks, supporting educational initiatives, and facilitating the operationalization of Anti-Oppression (AO) goals. The fellows have been recognized as instrumental in achieving AOLT’s objectives and supporting MPHI’s internal anti-oppression efforts.

Hughes holds a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Global Public Health and Epidemiology from Michigan State University (MSU). She is currently completing her master’s in public health at MSU. Hughes has also been involved with MSU Black Alumni’s Lansing Chapter, enabling her to connect and engage with the alumni community.

Hughes emphasized that building connections and providing space for people to be their authentic selves is one of her strengths. This ability has positively impacted her sense of belonging at MPHI.

“Everyone has been so welcoming and kind that automatically I felt a sense of belonging when I joined the team,” Hughes said. She noted that working with others continues to strengthen her sense of belonging at MPHI.

Hughes values her ability to connect with those around her and appreciates the public health field for connecting her with individuals striving to make positive changes in their communities.

“The heart of public health involves removing barriers that prevent people from achieving their highest level of health,” said Hughes. “I love working with others who are passionate about influencing or creating real change in the world. Working in public health has exposed me to some of the kindest, hard-working, and helpful people. That alone gets me more excited about the work that we do.”

The AOLT fellowship program was highlighted in MPHI’s 2023 Annual Report.